Academics, students, and readers: how do you take your research notes? I found this video overview on PhD annotation systems helpful, but I still prefer starting with ol’ fashioned analog notepads, and I have a (relatively simple) system of manila folders for printouts. Pen and paper seem to help memory retention. And of course, as Umberto Eco would talk about, a guide to thesis writing (and note taking) can also be a guide to life.